He was also a faculty member at Stamford University
National Film Award winner Zahidur Rahim Anjan has passed away at the age of 60.
The acclaimed director died on the night of February 24, 2025, in Bengaluru, India, where he had been undergoing treatment for liver complications.
His younger brother, Sazzadur Rahim, confirmed the news.
Anjan travelled to India four months ago for a liver transplant and has been receiving care at Sparsh Hospital since January 2025.
Although the surgery was performed on February 19, post-operative complications led to a decline in his condition.
Despite being placed on life support, he could not recover and passed away while still under medical care.
The family is currently completing formalities to bring his body back to Bangladesh.
Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is assisting the family with the process, which may take two to three days.
Anjan, the son of language movement activist Mizanur Rahim, was a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s film industry.
He gained national recognition with his directorial debut Meghmallar, adapted from the short story Raincoat by Akhtaruzzaman Elias.
Released in December 2014, the film earned him the National Film Award for Best Director and Best Dialogue Writer.
Beyond filmmaking, Anjan was actively involved in Bangladesh’s independent cinema movement.
He was the former president of the Short Film Forum and contributed to nurturing emerging filmmakers.
He was also a faculty member at Stamford University, where he inspired students through his passion for cinema.
Anjan’s latest film, Chander Amabasya, produced with government funding, was nearing release before his health issues delayed the project.
Despite his illness, Anjan had expressed hope of seeing the film hit theatres soon.
News of his passing has deeply saddened the film community.
Directors Amitabh Reza Chowdhury, Gias Uddin Selim, Akram Khan, and many others shared heartfelt tributes on social media.
They remember Anjan’s dedication to storytelling and his contributions to Bangladeshi cinema.
Colleagues described him as a visionary who captured the essence of human emotions through his work.
His films resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impact on both viewers and aspiring filmmakers.
His fans have been saddened by the news of his passing.
One said: “A great loss indeed. May his soul rest in peace in the hereafter.”
Another wrote: “Praying for the departed soul.”
Zahidur Rahim Anjan’s legacy will endure through his films and the influence he had on the next generation of storytellers.
Loading ...